University founder’s birthplace for sale as offices or family home

THE birthplace of the nephew of Isambard Kingdom Brunel, has put on the market with a price tag of £650,00.

THE birthplace of the nephew of Isambard Kingdom Brunel, has put on the market with a price tag of £650,00.

High Trees in Chepstow, the birthplace of Isambard Owen, the founder of universities of Wales, Bristol and Newcastle.

The grade II listed Georgian building is being offered for sale with freehold interest by Monmouthshire County Council.

The building is being marketed by chartered surveyors Savills.

It was once a family home and then a private school but for the last 25 years been used as a registry office by the council. Savills said it is suitable for a wide range of uses.

The existing building extends to 5,874 sq ft and is arranged over two floors.

The property has maintained its character and some original features including high-vaulted ceilings in several rooms and ornate plaster work.

Gareth Carter, development director at Savills in Cardiff, said: “High Trees offers an attractive development opportunity in a desirable area with excellent access to South Wales and South West England.

“Whilst the property is currently designated as B1 (office) use class, it has great potential for alternative uses and I would not rule out a return to family occupation as the room configuration reflects much of the original layout.

“The building would make a fine office headquarters, office or consulting rooms as there is ample car parking and two driveways.

“Alternative uses could include leisure, healthcare or perhaps a crèche or nursery.

“With two original staircases, the property has potential for extension and conversion to apartments with one acre of private grounds featuring many mature trees.

“There may be additional development potential within the grounds, particularly to the rear where there is a large walled parking courtyard which, subject to planning approval, may accommodate a single building plot or extension to the main house.”

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